INSIGHT 01732 759725 29 magazine Boom Collaboration founders Holli Hulett and Fredrik Hörnkvist In an age of video bars and webcams, more and more organisations are adding a dynamic new dimension to their remote meetings by taking a multicamera approach for ‘live events’ and conference calls. So says Texas-based hardware manufacturer Boom Collaboration, which has seen a significant acceleration in sales of multi-camera conferencing that can transform standard meetings and events into engaging and powerful customer experiences. Churches, court rooms, auction houses, training organisations and industry tradeshows are all embracing multi-camera conferencing technology to include remote participants in proceedings. Traditional conference rooms, too, are installing additional cameras for a more intuitive life-like experience. So far this year, Boom has seen a 35% surge in sales of multi-camera solutions that are helping to blur the line between traditional video calls and once complex AV production broadcasting. “There’s no doubt we are seeing major growth in live events and remote communication on an international scale across a growing number of sectors,” says Fredrik Hörnkvist who co-founded the company with Holli Hulett in 2020. “Many of today’s popular software-based meeting apps have the option to share multiple cameras and it’s clear this type of technology adds a new edge to traditional meetings, presentations and live shows. “Healthcare training is an area where lots of students can witness heart surgery remotely, rather than all being crammed into an operating theatre which wouldn’t be viable. They can view and learn clearly from various camera angles, from anywhere in the world. “Equally, there are many conferences, trade shows and industry events that can sell more tickets by having a remote element. Diverse views There’s one price to attend inperson and an online pass option.” Planning is key Hörnkvist adds that there is much to think about when planning a remote gathering. “The first thing is identifying a suitable location with good lighting and audio dynamics. Next is considering camera angles and decor plus how many actual cameras will be used. Technical knowledge is crucial too. Who is going to act as a producer and switch between cameras? How is content going to be shared? Do you need outside expertise? How long will the event last? You don’t want people becoming bored and losing interest. Interaction is crucial.” He feels advances in technology open the door to easier management of multi-dimensional meetings, creating more opportunities to enhance the overall customer experience. “It’s often been a complex and technical process in the past. But advances in technology are inspiring greater user confidence and expertise,” he says. “Power and electricity supply capacity can be a challenge. We often recommend using cameras that have a PoE capability. This makes it easier to deploy devices on the same network and improves room aesthetics, without unsightly cables everywhere.” New solutions such as Boom’s GOJO camera controller add even more functionality, including the ability to manage more than 250 devices if required. New era Boom Collaboration co-founder Holli Hulett adds that high performance 4K PTZ cameras and expandable audio are essential, as ‘quality counts’. “High quality PoE cameras, expandable audio and easy to use camera controllers/mixing desks are some of the key ingredients for a successful remote experience. Don’t overlook the importance of audio compared to video. If people can’t be heard clearly, then the show is over. “To overcome some of the fundamental room challenges we always suggest putting the main camera at eye level on the same wall as the display so that it’s natural and easy to engage directly with people. “We feel something like a 360-degree camera is actually counter-intuitive to the way we communicate as it doesn’t promote natural eye contact and reading of body language cues. Also, because more people are using video calls now, they are more aware of their physical appearance while on screen. This further enforces the need for high calibre cameras that make the most of a variety of meeting conditions,” she says. “It’s about creating a space that goes beyond the traditional video conference room by facing cameras in multiple directions, for more fluid and engaging experiences. We expect these trends to continue to expand and diversify, as a new era in video conferencing begins to unfold.” https:// boomcollaboration. com Why multi-camera conferencing represents the next generation of video meetings
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